NARTO Applauds FG on NPERA Creation, Says New Port Regulation Will Boost Efficiency, Cut Costs

By Iyioluwa Samuel

The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has commended the Federal Government for establishing the Nigeria Ports Economic Regulator Agency (NPERA), describing it as a timely reform that will inject accountability, transparency, and efficiency into Nigeria’s port and maritime operations.

In a statement signed by Alhaji Kayode Odunowo, Chairman of NARTO Lagos State, the association noted that the creation of a dedicated economic regulator addresses a critical gap in the sector. According to him, the move will streamline operations, promote fair competition, and reduce bottlenecks that have long hampered trade and logistics.

NARTO specifically acknowledged the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council for driving the initiative and lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for granting the reform the necessary executive backing.

“The establishment of NPERA is a significant milestone for Nigeria’s maritime industry,” Alhaji Odunowo stated. “What matters now is translating this policy into real impact on the ground. We need a regulatory framework that delivers tangible benefits to businesses, transport operators, freight forwarders, traders, and all users of the ports.”

He emphasized that effective regulation is key to building an orderly, predictable, and accountable port system where every player in the value chain operates under clear rules.

Odunowo stressed that the success of NPERA will depend on independent operations, stakeholder engagement, and faithful implementation. He added that road transport operators—who move over 80% of cargo out of Nigeria’s ports—must have their operational realities reflected in the new policies.

NARTO further called for robust collaboration between NPERA, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), terminal operators, freight forwarders, and transport associations to ensure seamless coordination and eliminate duplication of charges and unnecessary delays.

“Our expectation is a port environment where regulations are clear, charges are transparent, trade is facilitated, and impediments to cargo movement are drastically reduced. This will not only benefit transporters but will strengthen the entire Nigerian economy,” Odunowo said.

The association reaffirmed its readiness to work constructively with government and industry stakeholders, noting that an efficient port system is vital to commerce, job creation, and national economic development.

“NARTO believes that with proper regulation and management, Nigeria can consolidate its position as the leading maritime and trading hub in West Africa,” the statement concluded.

NARTO therefore urged all stakeholders to embrace the new era of port regulation with commitment to cooperation, accountability, and improved service delivery.